WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF JADE?
The term "JADE" is a cultural term, widely used to describe undifferentiated materials. However, what we call jade is actually TWO different minerals and when we know which one we are dealing with, we can use the correct terms. There is huge confusion about the types of jade, about which colors are most valuable and the grading standards.
In geology, there are just two different types of what we refer to as "Jade": Jadeite jade and Nephrite jade. The two have different chemical compositions, hardness, densities, and crystal structures. Each type varies in color depending on the concentration/ratios of minerals. We'll get into the differences below.
Metaphysical Benefits of Jade:
Abundance, Longevity, Detoxification, Renewal.
Metaphysical properties relate to Abundance, Longevity, Purity, Serenity and Beauty. Jade integrates mind & body, and promotes self identification. Jade is a transmitter of far infrared rays which help diminish wrinkles. Known as the stone of eternal youth, it promotes detoxification of the body & nervous system, and regeneration.
Jadeite Roller
JADEITE
Chemical Composition - Sodium Aluminum Silicate
Distinctive Quality - Supports Wound Repair. More likely to be translucent than Nephrite. Harder than Nephrite. Rarer and more valuable.
Jadeite is more precious and ranges widely in color from white, brown, lavender, black and grey. Jadeite is separated into three categories: A jadeite jade (untreated), B jadeite jade (bleached and impregnated) and C jadeite jade (bleached, impregnated and dyed). Translucent emerald green jadeite, also called "Imperial Jade" is the most prized. Jadeite is mainly mined in Myanmar, Guatemala and the USA.
Dark Green Nephrite Roller
NEPHRITE
Chemical Composition - A Microcrystalline made up of Calcium Magnesium Iron Silicate
Distinctive Quality - Supports the Central Nervous System. Softer than Jadeite. Tougher against wear than Jadeite.
Nephrite Jade ranges in color from greenish to brown, white(aka mutton fat) and black. Nephrite jade is mainly sourced from Taiwan, New Zealand, Canada, China, USA and Russia
Xiuyan Jade Roller (nephrite category)
XIUYAN JADE
Chemical Composition - (Nephrite + Serpentine) Calcium Magnesium Iron Silicate + Magnesium Iron Silicate Hydroxide
Xiuyan Jade falls under the category of Nephrite, although it includes deposits of Serpentine. This is the most common type of affordable jade sold and most jade gemstone beauty tools are made with this variety. It is considered traditional Jade and has been used by the people of China since ancient times. Xiuyan Jade comes from the Xiuyan County of Liaoning Province. If you simply ask for "jade", this is the type you will likely be presented with.
SERPENTINE
Chemical Composition - Magnesium Hydroxyl Silicate
Serpentine is NOT Jade, but it is included in Xiuyan Jade stones. Like Jade, Serpentine is beneficial for Longevity, Detoxification, balancing mental and emotional wellness, and channeling healing energy.
Examples of Jade
These are examples, but keep in mind that colors vary greatly and marbling and patterns also vary!
Nephrite Jade Gua Sha Tool
Xiuyan Jade Gua Sha Tool
Xiuyan Jade Eye Mask
Learn about Ethically Sourced Gemstones
References:
"The Encyclopedia of Crystals" by Judy Hall
http://greenmountainjade.com/jade/nephrite-vs-jade...
https://geology.com/gemstones/jade/
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The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are in no way intended to heal, prevent or treat any illness. Please consult your doctor if you are seeking medical advice.